The Facts on Notarization vs. Certification of Documents Published Sept. 3, 2008 By 48th Fighter Wing Legal Office ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Okay so you have a document and you think you need it notarized. First consider whether you really need a notarization or if what you need is a certification. The distinction between the two is significant; notaries are simple to obtain, but certifications are rarely issued by your base legal office Notarization --The Facts · Only for your identity and signature! · A notary acts as an official and unbiased witness to your identity and signature · A notary has the authority to administer oaths and affirmations · At the time of signing and notarization the document must be completely filled out Certification -The Facts · Certification of a document is not the same as notarizing a document · Certification states that the document is a true and accurate copy of the original · A certification requires verification of the authenticity of the document represented by the client to be the original o Only the entity that created the document or maintains the original document or electronic record as part of its official responsibilities can make this verification-In other words if the Legal Office did not prepare the document, they cannot certify it! What the Notary Can Do · The notary may notarize someone else's certification of authenticity · The notary may notarize a signed statement or affidavit from you that states that a document is a true and accurate copy of the original record